Absence from Class Not Punishable by Warning Sparks Debate; Ministry of Education: Respects Municipalities' Self-Defined Disciplinary Regulations

(CNA reporter Chen Chih-chung, Taipei, July 1st) Media reports indicate that Taoyuan City has requested schools to amend their regulations, stating that students cannot be punished with a warning for skipping class or being late, sparking discussion among parents. The Ministry of Education stated that it respects municipalities' self-defined disciplinary regulations, balancing teachers' right to reasonable discipline with the protection of students' rights.

CTVS News reported on June 30th that the Taoyuan City Department of Education recently asked all schools to review their regulations and remove inappropriate clauses, such as those that would punish students with a warning for misconduct like skipping class or being late.

The Ministry of Education responded to CNA in writing today, stating that the principles, procedures, and other related matters for student rewards and punishments are established by the central competent authority. Municipalities then establish their own regulations in accordance with these principles and assist schools in reviewing their internal rules to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

The Ministry of Education stated that it respects local education authorities in supervising schools under their jurisdiction according to law and suggests that when schools establish student reward and punishment regulations, they should balance the exercise of teachers' reasonable disciplinary rights with the protection of students' rights.

According to Article 12 of the "Regulations for Student Rewards and Punishments in Elementary and Junior High Schools" promulgated in 2024, a student's attendance status on a class day may be subject to appropriate and proportional guidance or disciplinary measures, but not punishment. The legislative explanation clarifies that attendance is already included in the assessment of students' daily performance, and attendance rate is also a graduation requirement. If it were also handled through reward and punishment regulations, it would lead to double counting.

Article 7 of the Regulations lists 16 general disciplinary measures that teachers can take, including verbal correction, requiring a written self-reflection, appropriately increasing workload, and notifying legal guardians. Based on guiding student development, teachers can take disciplinary measures after considering the student's physical and mental condition. (Edited by Chang Ya-ching) 1150701

Stand with facts, your every sponsorship is a force to protect press freedom.

Download the CNA "One-Stop News" APP for real-time updates.

This website's text, images, and videos may not be reproduced, broadcast, transmitted, or used without authorization.